Prosecutor declines to charge Don Stapley

A special prosecutor is declining to press charges against a Maricopa County Supervisor after reviewing corruption investigations.

The Arizona Republic reports that special prosecutor and Gila County Attorney Daisy Flores says she believes there is sufficient evidence to prove that Maricopa County Supervisor Don Stapley committed seven felony offenses of false swearing related to campaign contributions.

But, Flores says that it’s best not to pursue the charges over concerns about the investigation and prosecution by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s and Attorney’s offices.

Stapley says he is relieved and grateful that the “long nightmare” is over.

Stapley was initially indicted in November 2008 on 118 counts related to discrepancies in financial disclosure forms, but the case was thrown out on technicalities.

A second case with 27 felonies was then filed, but it was later voluntarily dismissed.

Former Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas then sent both cases to Flores for review.